Lt Gen Narendra Kotwal (R), Dr Sumedha Ahal Kotwal
narendrakotwal@gmail.com
In a world often divided by rigid ideologies and competing claims to truth, the idea of secular spirituality offers a refreshing and inclusive perspective. It is a way of living that does not demand allegiance to any one religion, ritual, or creed, yet acknowledges the deep human need for meaning, connection, and transcendence. It reminds us that spirituality is not about belonging to a particular sect, but about belonging to life itself.
The Vedic seers long ago declared, “Ekam sat viprabahudhavadanti”-Truth is one, but the wise describe it in many ways. This timeless wisdom captures the spirit of secular spirituality. It encourages us to respect diversity, embrace inquiry, and cultivate harmony, while keeping our hearts and minds open to the mystery of existence.
Unlike systems that offer pre-packaged answers, secular spirituality begins with the courage to ask questions. The Upanishadic tradition is built on dialogue and inquiry: “Who am I? What is real? What is my purpose?” These are not questions that can be answered once and for all, but companions for a lifelong journey. In the same way, science progresses not by certainty but by curiosity, testing, and openness. To live spiritually in a secular way is to cultivate this spirit of exploration, to see life not as a burden to endure but as a canvas to color with meaning.
Modern psychology echoes this ancient intuition. Viktor Frankl, the Holocaust survivor and psychiatrist, taught that the deepest human drive is not pleasure or power but meaning. Abraham Maslow placed self-transcendence-the ability to move beyond the ego-in the highest place of human development. Neuroscience, too, shows us that practices such as meditation, gratitude, and compassion literally rewire the brain, improving well-being and resilience. What the Vedas intuited as yoga, a union of body, mind, and spirit, modern science now validates as a path to flourishing.
Secular spirituality is, at its core, about human flourishing. It asks us to engage fully with life-to nurture creativity, cultivate authentic relationships, and contribute to the world around us. It is not an isolated inward journey, but one that resonates with the collective. The Bhagavad Gita declares “Yogahkarmasukaush-alam”-yoga is excellence in action. To live with meaning, then, is to align one’s actions with deeper values and to find joy in contributing to the larger tapestry of existence.
But flourishing is not the end; the path ultimately points to self-transcendence. The Isha Upanishad begins with the powerful reminder: “Isha vasyamidamsarvam”all this is pervaded by the Self. When we see ourselves not as isolated individuals but as participants in a larger whole-be it humanity, nature, or the cosmos-life acquires a depth that mere success or achievement cannot provide. In practical terms, this may mean acts of service, environmental stewardship, or simply the ability to look at another being with compassion and reverence.
What does this look like in daily life? It can be surprisingly simple. A few minutes of mindful silence each day to anchor oneself. Keeping a journal of questions rather than rushing for answers. Engaging in creative expression-whether painting, writing, gardening, or innovation-as a way to channel the inner self. Building relationships based on honesty and empathy. Living lightly on the earth, recognizing nature as an extension of our being. And most importantly, practicing small acts of kindness and service that connect us to something larger than ourselves.
Such practices are not abstract ideals. They are supported by both ancient wisdom and modern science. Research confirms that gratitude enhances well-being, that compassion improves resilience, and that mindfulness reduces stress. Secular spirituality does not reject reason; it integrates reason with wisdom, science with spirit, individuality with transcendence.
The invitation of secular spirituality is therefore not to withdraw from life but to participate in it more fully. It asks: What paths will you explore? How will your choices shape the tapestry of your life? Each of us has the power to craft meaning, to forge ahead with intention and joy, and to create a resonance that uplifts not only ourselves but also those around us.
The Rig Veda offers a guiding prayer: “Sangachhadhwam samvadadhwam”-let us walk together, let us speak together, let our minds be in harmony. That is the essence of secular spirituality: diverse yet unifying, questioning yet reverent, personal yet collective. It is about finding freedom not in detachment from the world, but in deeper engagement with it.
Spirituality, then, is not confined to temples, churches, or mosques, nor is it negated by rational inquiry. It lives in our courage to ask, our willingness to reflect, our ability to connect, and our commitment to create. Above all, it lives in our capacity to step beyond the narrow self and embrace our place within the grand design of existence.
Secular spirituality is, in the end, a celebration-of freedom, meaning, and transcendence. It is a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern science, between self and cosmos, between individuality and the collective. And it is an invitation to all of us to live not just a life of survival or success, but a life of significance.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
